Kellie Olsen, Teacher & Tutor

08/16/2026

08/12/2026

Sally McCloskey was just 3 years old and unhappy about the impending birth of her little sister, so her father decided to write her a story to cheer her up. In the masterful hands of Robert McCloskey, that little story became one of the most beloved and enduring children’s books of all time: “Blueberries for Sal,” which has sold more than 3 million copies.

Story link in the comments.

07/30/2026

There are a few different 9s tricks! This summer I’ve been working with a couple strategies for fluency in multiplication facts. I love helping kids with strategies and ways to remember or figure out multiplication facts.

07/30/2026

“Students get interested in stuff they get exposed to.”

Well said, Temple Grandin! I love watching students grow in interest and appreciation for a wide variety of topics and skills.

07/25/2026

One of my favorite math topics!

07/07/2026

I loved when my students learned about the Timucua in 4th grade!

Long before FIFA, the indigenous Timucua people were already playing their own version of the exhilarating game. This historic engraving by Theodore de Bry, based on a drawing by Jacques Le Moyne, depicts Timucua men competing in a ball game with striking similarities to both soccer and lacrosse. This game, among other competitions of running and archery, was played during the summer in honor of the gods of the sun, rain, and thunder so that they would bless the harvest.

As the World Cup carries on this summer, we're reminded that the drive to compete, celebrate, and come together through sport is nothing new to this land. Though the games may change, the spirit endures! ⚽🏆☀

Come to the Timucuan Preserve to learn more about the history of northeast Florida and the many stories it has to tell!

Photo: De Bry Engraving

05/28/2026

Last day of the homeschool year pool party!

05/08/2026

From 2024:
“I took Joan (the black widow 🕷️) on a field field trip to school today. She visited a bunch of classrooms and the kids were so excited! I love that even the ones who were hesitant to look at her didn’t scream or act melodramatic. The kids at this school have so much respect for nature. 💚 I was telling them about how yes, the black widow is venomous, but she’s really shy and doesn’t actually want to bite you. One adorable first grader said, “Yeah, it’s just a defense mechanism!” 🥹”